BHOJPUR, Feb 6: Bhojpur, located in eastern Nepal, is famous for its khukuri, a traditional weapon crafted locally that has earned recognition both within Nepal and internationally.

However, the khukuri industry is encountering major challenges, primarily due to a shortage of skilled craftsmen and essential raw materials.

The situation is expected to worsen as more young people are opting to go abroad for employment and education opportunities.

Ghanashyam Bishwokarma, who operates a furnace for making khukuris, explained, “The number of furnaces used to heat and forge metal into khukuris has drastically declined in the district.”

Key areas where the khukuris are traditionally produced include Kot, Dalgaon, Gogane, Khawa, Khairang, Taksar, Bokhim, Danwa, Timma, Dingla, Deurali, and Jarayotar.

Entrepreneurs in the region have expressed concerns about the scarcity of raw materials like coal and sal wood, combined with a shrinking workforce, which is threatening the future of the Bhojpure khukuri industry.

Dinesh Gajmer, the owner of Ranjita Khukuri Industry, stated, “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to find artisans, leading to a decline in khukuri production.

However, demand for the weapon is rising, and those still working in the industry are paid well to continue the craft.”

The Bhojpure khukuri is not just a weapon, but also a prized gift and decorative item.

Various types of khukuris are produced in the district, including sirupate, banspate, chitlange, kothimuda, panwala, dharkhole, and budune.

Hira Shrestha, owner of Urmila Furnace Industry, recalled, “When King Mahendra visited Bhojpur in 1970, Singha Bahadur BK from Bokhim presented him with a khukuri, which significantly boosted the product’s visibility.”

Locally, khukuris are sold for prices ranging from Rs 800 to 1,800. In rural areas, the budune and banspate varieties are most commonly used.

Apart from local demand, khukuris are also sold in places like Dharan, Udayapur, Sankhuwasabha, and Kathmandu.

Industry leaders have urged the government to assist in preserving and supporting the khukuri-making tradition.

RSS